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Equality Alabama Hires Lobbyist for 2014 Legislative Session

A new special interest group in Alabama is joining the political game for the 2014 legislative session. Equality Alabama, a non-profit representing LGBTQ interests in the state, has hired longtime Democratic lobbyist Jeff Martin.

Martin will be lobbying on HB 40, Rep. Patricia Todd’s constitutional marriage bill, and HB 31, a bill sponsored by Rep. Becky Nordgren that would allow healthcare professionals to refuse service based on certain “moral” criteria.

Michael Hansen, a board member for Equality Alabama and chairperson of the group’s communications committee, issued the following statement:

Equality Alabama has worked tirelessly over the past year to revitalize its organizational structure and build capacity. We felt now was the time to begin conversations with those who shape public policy in Alabama about issues affecting LGBTQ individuals in their everyday lives, such as marriage, family and health care rights. Jeff will give us a voice in Montgomery and help us bring about positive changes for those we serve.

According to its website, Equality Alabama was formed in 2002 through the merger of two other LGBT-related organizations. This appears to be the first time the organization has hired a contract lobbyist in it’s 14-year history.

Martin has also lobbied for Conservation Alabama, the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association and the Alabama Press Association, according to his LinkedIn profile.